Why Did the Old Woman Cross the Road?
by Helen Barter
A road separates two old ladies,
on opposite sides, both dressed in turquoise coat
and beige trousers. Each wearing one red shoe;
both leaning slightly, to opposite sides,
listing with the weight of their shopping.
Which one will cross to meet the other?
They both set off, step for tentative step,
no eye contact, no gesture of recognition.
A road still separates the two old ladies,
on opposite sides, both dressed in turquoise coat
and beige trousers, each wearing one red shoe;
Now walking, in opposite directions,
listing with the weight of their worlds.
